Simlipal National Park

Comprising a hilly tract of dense forests spread over 2,750 sq km, Simlipal National Park and Tiger Reserve is set in the northern part of Odisha. The forest probably derives its name from the Simul tree, which is known for its red flowers. There are several mid-range mountain peaks here such as Khairiburu (3,685 ft) and Meghasani (3,800 ft). Seven major rivers and their tributaries flow through these forests, some rich with crocodiles and mahseer. The park is home to tigers, elephants and leopards, but tiger sightings are rare in the area open to tourists. Animals that are more easily spotted here include sambar, barking deer and spotted deer. The sanctuary is also home to thousands of birds, such as the brown wood owl, blue bearded bee eater, greater flameback, orange headed thrush, forest wagtail, Tickell’s thrush, and the lesser yellownape among others.

Entry Indians ₹ 40; Foreigners ₹ 1,000 Vehicle Entry ₹ 100 Timings Entry permits are issued between 6.00am and 9.00am at the Pithabata and Jashipur booking counters; exit by 5.00pm. Contact Field Director Simlipal Tiger Reserve, Bhanjpur, Baripada Tel 06792-252593; W similipal.org

THING TO SEE AND DO

Take a drive around Simlipal, enjoy the beauty of the forest and spot animals. The terrain is rough, so travel in a 4WD and ensure you take a driver who is familiar with the routes.

Wildlife Spotting

Located in the core area, Chahala is perhaps the place most visited by tourists. Set in a big clearing, enclosed by a trench on one side and a fence on the other, it is an ideal place to spot animals such as bison or deer. The salt licks nearby draw animals; you can also view them from a watchtower.

Spotted deer at Simlipal National Park

Dhritiman Mukherjee

Trekking

There are several treks that can be undertaken within the reserve. The most popular is a 6 km trek through serene meadows from Brundaban to Chahala and back, while a shorter one is from Uski village to Uski Waterfalls. To find out more, and to arrange treks, contact the Assistant Conservator of Forests, National Park, Jashipur.

WHERE TO STAY AND EAT

In Jashipur, the Ramthirtha Complex has Toshali Jungle Lodge (Tel: 0674-2547720, Cell: 09937011826). The lodge has one Devasthali Cottage (Tariff:  ₹3,500 per room) with four rooms, three Tribal Huts (Tariff: ₹3,200 per room) with three rooms each and three 10-bedded dorm units (Tariff: ₹13,000 per unit). Their kitchen serves good multicuisine fare. Jungle safari and guides can be arranged.

Odisha Tourism runs Panthanivas (Tel: 06792-252710, Cell: 094380-44650; Tariff: ₹1,200-1,300) in Baripada. They have a restaurant.

When to go Open from 1 November to 15 June Location In Mayurbhanj District, near the border of Bengal and Bihar Air Nearest airport: Bhubaneswar, Kolkata Rail Nearest rail: Balasore